Gafford will be back after sitting out the second night of the Mavericks’ back-to-back on Saturday. He’ll likely split the center minutes with Dereck Lively II, with Lively starting. Kai Jones, who has been playing plenty of minutes at center, has been sent down to the G League with both Gafford and Lively available.

Gafford is sitting out Saturday’s game because it is the Mavericks’ second in as many nights. Dallas will have suitable coverage for Gafford’s absence, with Anthony Davis and Dereck Lively II on track to play. Hardy sprained his right ankle during the fourth quarter of Friday’s loss to the Clippers. His absence should free up additional minutes for fellow reserve Max Christie, who is worth a look in deep leagues.